Many families in Snohomish County love watching local birds visit their yards. It is a relaxing way to connect with nature from your own porch. However, that hanging bird feeder might be inviting more than just colorful wings.
In our part of Washington, bird seed is a major draw for rodents looking for an easy meal. While we want to support our local wildlife, we often end up feeding the local rat population by mistake.
This can quickly lead to a bigger problem near your home. United Pest Solutions can help you manage these unwanted guests if your bird-watching hobby takes an unexpected turn.
The Hidden Buffet in Snohomish County Yards
Bird feeders are an open invitation for rats and mice. Most people do not realize how much seed ends up on the ground. Birds are messy eaters and often toss seeds aside to find the ones they like best. This creates a pile of high-calorie food right on your lawn.
In Snohomish County, our damp weather can cause this fallen seed to rot. This creates a strong scent that acts like a magnet for rats. These rats often live in nearby greenbelts or local parks.
Once they find a reliable food source in your yard, they have no reason to leave. They will quickly set up a nest nearby so they can visit the buffet every single night.
Why Rats Love Bird Seed
Rats are not picky, but they especially love the grains and fats found in bird seed. Sunflower seeds and suet give them the energy they need to survive our chilly winters. Because rats come out at night, you might never see them eating.
You might only notice the empty shells left behind the next morning. These rodents are also excellent climbers. They can easily shimmy up a pole or jump from a tree branch to reach the feeder.
Once a rat knows where the food is, it will return to that spot again and again. This constant food supply allows them to breed much faster than they would in the wild.
The Risk to Your Snohomish County Home
The biggest danger is not just having rats in your garden. When rats are attracted to a feeder near your house, they eventually look for a way inside. They might start by nesting under your deck or in a woodpile.
From there, it is only a short trip to your crawl space or attic. Rats can chew through wood and even soft metals to find warmth.
If they are already comfortable eating in your yard, your home is the next place they will explore. Keeping a bird feeder too close to your foundation is often the first step in a home infestation.
Better Ways to Feed Local Birds
You do not have to give up bird watching, but you should change how you do it. One of the best tips is to use “no-mess” bird seed. This type of seed has no hulls, so the birds eat the whole thing.
This leaves nothing on the ground for rats to find. You can also install a wide tray under your feeder to catch any falling bits. It is very important to clean up the area under the feeder every evening.
If you remove the food before the sun goes down, the rats will have nothing to find at night. You can also use a baffle on your pole to stop rodents from climbing up.
If you notice signs of rodents around your feeders, United Pest Solutions can provide a professional plan to clear them out.
They understand the specific types of pests that thrive in Snohomish County. You can trust their team to handle the situation so you can enjoy your yard in peace again.